Bognor Regis street drinkers and rough sleepers given new help

The Bognor Regis street community outreach project is secure until March 31 to allow a search for long-term backing to take place.

The scheme’s original funding from West Sussex County Council ends on January 16 after one year.

Arun District Council has stepped in with £11,000 to prevent it ending.

Cllr Roger Elkins, Arun’s councillor in charge of community care, said: “We are pleased to be able to work with our partners to help the continuation of this project to give time for further funding to be sought.

“The project does valuable work in the Bognor Regis area, dealing with the complex issues around street sleeping and drinking.”

The project has helped more than 35 rough sleepers, secured housing and jobs for about 18 people and also helped those who may want to return to their native country.

In the past 11 months, it has assisted rough sleepers in the town to access health treatment, address substance and alcohol misuse problems and reduce crime.

The police district commander for Arun, Chief Inspector Jane Derrick, said the project’s early intervention approach was key in dealing with crime and anti-social behaviour, while it made those on the streets less vulnerable.

Cllr Pete Bradbury, the county council’s cabinet member for public protection, said: “We are delighted this pilot project has proved so worthwhile. “